Lilium, the German eVTOL company, and Ferrovial, a global infrastructure operator, have announced plans to develop a network of at least ten vertiports in the U.S. The zero-carbon infrastructure and services will cover strategic locations in all major cities across Florida.
The first location in South Florida will be announced as soon as Spring 2021.
Lilium has designed and prototyped the Lilium Jet, a brand-new type of aircraft that will enable it to deliver regional journeys that are faster than rail or road. The full-scale five-seater demonstrator first flew in May 2019 and is a fully electric aircraft that can take-off and land vertically (eVTOL).
Daniel Wiegand, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Lilium says: “Our partnership with Ferrovial to develop flight infrastructure, is a critical step in delivering the potential of regional air mobility to provide high speed, affordable, emissions-free travel to millions of people. As we accelerate our launch plans, Lilium is committed to partnering with industry leaders, bringing together their strengths and experience with our aircraft technology and passenger service infrastructure. We’re excited about what we will achieve together.”
Dr. Remo Gerber, Chief Operating Officer, Lilium, adds: “Our strategy to bring high-speed transportation networks to an entire region is being brought to life in Florida, and Ferrovial is the ideal partner with their unrivalled expertise in airport construction and operations around the globe. Nearly all 20 million Floridians will live within 30 minutes of our vertiports and the 140 million annual visitors to the Sunshine State will have a high-speed option available to travel to their destinations.”
“We are delighted to partner with Lilium in this big step towards new ways of achieving air mobility and sustainable infrastructure. Our partnership will deliver a uniquely different end-to-end passenger experience,” comments Jorge Gil, CEO Ferrovial Airports.
Co-founded in 2015, Lilium has attracted more than $375m in funding from world-class investors such as Atomico, Tencent, Baillie Gifford, LGT, Freigeist and Obvious Ventures. Lilium has offices in Munich, Zurich, London, and Washington D.C., and currently employs more than 600 people.
